User:Tinicum/John Pierce Barnes

John Pierce Barnes was a visionary artist associated with the Bucks County School of impressionist painters.  He was born in Philadelphia in 1893 and left an indelible mark on the world of art despite his relatively small body of work. His training involved attending the Philadelphia School of Industrial Design and the prestigious Pennsylvania Academy of the Arts.  His artistic design reflects the influence of the style of Daniel Garber.

In 1923, Barnes's dedication and talent were rewarded with the coveted Cresson Traveling Scholarship. This transformative opportunity enabled him to immerse himself in the artistic riches of Europe, painting against the backdrop of France, Holland, and Belgium. The exposure to diverse cultures and landscapes left an indelible imprint on Barnes's artistic vision. In the 1920s, Barnes' life took a turn with a battle against "sleeping sickness," which curtailed his artistic output.

French Impressionism and Pointillism were powerful forces that influenced Barnes's artistic style. His works reflect the use of vibrant colors and vigorous brush strokes that evoke movement and light. This fusion of techniques is a testament to his skillful mastery of diverse artistic approaches.

Beyond the canvas, Barnes's talents extended into the commercial realm. He was credited with designing the former iconic logo for RCA Victor, an accomplishment that showcased his versatility as an artist.  In 2009, the Woodmere Art Museum in Philadelphia paid homage to Barnes's legacy with a retrospective exhibition. This event highlighted his significant contributions to the art world, showcasing his unique journey and the enduring impact of his work.

John Pierce Barnes's artistic journey may have been brief in terms of quantity, but its quality and impact are impressive. His landscapes and still-life paintings speak of a deep connection with the natural world, while his design work resonates with innovation. His unique blend of techniques, from vigorous brushwork to bold colors, captures the essence of his multifaceted talent. Today, Barnes's legacy continues to inspire aspiring artists and art enthusiasts, a testament to his enduring influence on the world of creativity.  Barnes died in 1954.

Education:

  • Pennsylvania School of Industrial Art, now University of the Arts, 1921
  • Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, 1921-22 and 1924-25
  • Studied with teachers Daniel Garber, H.H. Breckenridge, Arthur B. Carles

Honors, Awards, Notations:

  • Pennsylvania Museum and School of Industrial Art, Art Department Prizes, 1921
  • Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts Cresson Travel Scholarship Award, 1923 and 1924
  • Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts 2nd Toppan Prize, 1924
  • Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts School Circulars, Summer School, 1923 and 1924

Exhibitions:

  • 1921 - 19th Annual Philadelphia Water Color and Miniature Exhibition - Watercolors
  • 1922 - 20th Annual Philadelphia Water Color and Miniature Exhibition - Pastels
  • 1922 – Sixth Exhibition of Student Work Done at Chester Springs, Summer School of PAFA
  • September 2008, Bella Art Gallery and Fifth Third Bank, Shadyside, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
  • February-June 2009, The Butler Institute of American Art, Youngstown, OH
  • June - August 2009, Woodmere Art Museum, Philadelphia, PA
  • February –April 2010, Camden County Historical Society and Museum, Camden, NJ
  • September 2011, Salmagundi Club, New York, NY
  • October 2013- January 2014, Noyes Museum of Art, Oceanville, NJ

Collections:

  • Woodmere Art Museum, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
  • Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts Museum, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
  • Noyes Museum of Art, Oceanville, NJ

Recent Publications:

  • American Art Review, “The Art of John Pierce Barnes,” March/April 2010
  • Pastel Journal, “History Reclaimed,” June 2012

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References

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  • American Art Review, “The Art of John Pierce Barnes,” March/April 2010
  •  
    "Late Afternoon," 20 x 24 inches, by John Pierce Barnes
    Pastel Journal, “History Reclaimed,” June 2012
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  • Jacobsen’s Biographical Index of American Artists, Vol. I, Book I, p. 169
  • Mantle Fielding’s Dictionary of American Painters, 1945, p. 48; 1965, p. 19
  • James Alterman: New Hope for American Art, 2005, p. 40
  • Who Was Who in American Art, Sound View Press, 1999, p. 210